Wheel Offset Explained: What it is & Why People Do It

Wheel Offset Explained: What it is & Why People Do it

Anyone who's ever looked into buying a new set of wheels for their car has likely heard the term "offset". Having positive or negative offset can provide many performance and style advantages; in fact, many Camaros come stock with offset wheels. But what is it, and how can it help (or hurt) your ride? Let's dive into this topic and see why many people add wheel offset to their cars.

What is an Offset on Wheels?

The word "offset" refers to the alignment of the wheels and hubs. When a wheel has zero offset, the hub mounting surface is perfectly in line with the wheel centerline. You can add positive or negative offset to change this alignment. Positive offset moves the hub's mounting surface in front of the wheel's centerline more toward the street side, pushing the wheel inward. This is common in newer cars, especially those with front-wheel drive. Negative offset moves the hub surface behind the centerline, pushing the wheel outward and giving a "deep dish" look.

Offset is typically measured in millimeters. The higher the number, the more positive offset and less lip a wheel has. When the wheels and tires extend beyond the fender, it's usually because of negative offset.

Wheel Offset vs. Backspacing

Backspacing is a cousin of offset that is also important for wheel shopping. It's the measurement of the distance between the mounting surface and the inner lip, which is determined in part by the offset. This distance tells you what combination of wheel width and offset you can use without the wheels and tires sticking out or rubbing on the suspension.

Why to Change Wheel Offset

When people alter the offset, it's typically to make the number smaller so the wheels and tires stick out more. This gives cars a more aggressive look, particularly in combination with a lowering kit. Making the vehicle's stance wider this way can also improve handling, although you may need to change other suspension parts to get the biggest effects.

There are two ways to get a custom wheel offset. One is to order a set of aftermarket wheels; the other is to add wheel spacers. In both cases, keep in mind that the vehicle's stock configuration was designed to work within a specific offset range. Going outside this range will require other changes to accommodate the new offset. We generally recommend the new offset not be more than 5mm different from the factory measurements.

Wheel Offset Drawbacks

Getting the offset correct is a vital part of overs performance. If it's off in any way, it can lead to serious problems down the road.

• Too much positive offset can cause the inner edge of the wheel/tire to rub against the suspension and interfere with brake parts. Other problems include faster tire wear and unstable handling.
• Conversely, too much negative offset puts more stress on the suspension and increases kick-back from the steering wheel. You may also need to buy new flared fenders to prevent rubbing.

Camaro Offset Wheels

Rick's Camaro has a huge selection of wheels and tires with various offsets to give your machine the looks and performance you want.  Browse custom Camaro wheels from leading brands such as American Racing, Cragar, Vintage Wheel Works and Rocket Racing Wheels. You can email an expert seven days a week for advice about changing the offset.